Prestigious Award for Former Melbourne Cup Vet Amidst Allegations of Bullying

In a significant development that highlights the complexities and challenges within the Racing Victoria organization, Dr. Grace Forbes, the architect of the groundbreaking Melbourne Cup safety protocols, has been awarded the prestigious Equine Veterinary Association’s Patricia Ellis Award. This recognition comes despite her departure from the organization last year amidst allegations of bullying by leadership, a situation that remains sensitive and under scrutiny.

The Patricia Ellis Award is a testament to Dr. Forbes' dedication and innovative approach to horse welfare, particularly her work in developing world-first veterinary safety protocols for international horses and Melbourne Cup runners. Her contributions have been pivotal in enhancing the safety and well-being of horses participating in the Melbourne Cup, an event that had previously faced criticism due to a series of horse deaths between 2013 and 2020.

Dr. Forbes' allegations of being pressured by Racing Victoria's CEO, Aaron Morrison, and head of integrity, Jamie Stier, to allow international horses at high risk of injury to participate in the Cup, led to a confidential settlement and her subsequent resignation in December. The claims, though never tested in court, underscore the deep-seated issues within the organization and the challenges faced by professionals advocating for horse welfare.

The introduction of a strict new testing regime, including bone scans, under Dr. Forbes' guidance, has been instrumental in maintaining a fatality-free record for the Melbourne Cup since 2021. This achievement is a direct result of her commitment to advancing horse welfare through science, integrity, and the courage to challenge existing practices. The Equine Veterinary Association's recognition of her work serves as a validation of her principles and methodologies.

The backlash from trainers and owners in 2024, following the scratching of five Melbourne Cup runners due to the new testing process, illustrates the resistance to change and the tensions between regulatory bodies, participants, and welfare advocates. Dr. Forbes' experience and the award she has received highlight the ongoing challenges in balancing the competitive nature of horse racing with the imperative of ensuring the highest standards of horse welfare.

The current vacancy in the chief vet role at Racing Victoria, in the wake of Dr. Forbes' departure, underscores the organizational challenges and the need for leadership that prioritizes both the sport's integrity and the welfare of its equine participants. As the racing community continues to grapple with these issues, the award bestowed upon Dr. Forbes serves as a reminder of the importance of courageous, science-driven leadership in advancing the welfare of horses and the integrity of the sport.